A-Z

 

NARROW BOATING ENCYCLOPAEDIA

 

Especially published for the novice/experienced narrow boating enthusiast.

 

Document courtesy of Boats To Go.

Visit our web site

www.boatstogo.co.uk

 

Although some of the information contained within seems very daunting to a newcomer, I can assure you it is not difficult to master narrow boating and the rewards of cruising the beautiful countryside and waterways the UK has to offer.

The excitement and pleasure narrow boating brings to you will surpass any doubts about trying it out for yourself.

 

DISCLAIMER: The information contained within this document is for guidance and information only. Boats To Go, will not be liable or held responsible for any information included in said document, or for any other reason resulting from the use or application of any information contained in this publication.

 

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MAIN MENU

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A-Z Thesaurus of BOATING TERMS

 

A  -  B  -  C  -  D  -  E   - F   - G   - H  -  I   - J   - K   - L  - M

 

N   - O  - P   - Q   - R   - S  - T   - U   - V   - W   - X   - Y  - Z

 

 

 

 

GENERAL INFORMATION

Hints & Tips

UK waterway (events & rallies)

UK CANAL INFORMATION

Proposed canal routes

Aqueducts

 

Boat Lifts

Canal waterway system (England)

 

Canal waterway system (Scotland)

 

Canal waterway system (Wales)

 

Canals that have been abandoned or are currently not navigable

Inclined planes

Locks

Railway & canal Historical Society

Tunnels

 

Waterways under restoration

Waterway restoration groups in the United Kingdom

 

 

UK RIVER INFORMATION

 

Rivers (England – Scotland & Wales)

Rivers (Flowing into the North Sea - Thames and Medway)

 

Rivers (Flowing into the North Sea - North of the Thames Estuary)

 

Rivers (Flowing into the Irish Sea)

Rivers (Flowing into the Bristol Channel)

 

PORTS & HARBOURS OF ENGLAND

 

Ports & Harbours (by counties)

 

 

AUTHORITIES (Navigation)

 

Inland waterway (Authorities)

 

 

ACKNOWLEDEGEMENTS

 

COPYRIGHT

 

A

 

ABANDON BOAT (ship) – order to leave boat immediately, usually given out when imminent danger is present

 

ABOARD – (on board) within the confinements of the boat.

 

ABREAST – 2 boats usually tied together or cruising side by side.

 

ADRIFT – boat is not moored, anchored or has no control via the engine, drifting in open waters.

 

AFT – terminology for rear end of boat (stern)

 

AGROUND - boat gets stuck “it’s not a disaster”. Don’t try to force your way over the obstacle or you will find yourself even more stuck. Instead use reverse gear to back away into deeper water. If you are firmly stuck, ask some or all of the crew to move to the side of the boat that is still floating (but not to the extent that you risk capsizing). Now use the pole to push off against a solid object or the bed of the waterway. If you put the pole straight down and try to use it as a lever, it will either break or you will fall in. Keep the top of the pole away from your face and body, in case it slips suddenly. If still grounded and a crew member can get safely to bank side, tie a rope to the boats

end which is stuck and get crew member ashore with other end of rope. Crew member then pulls on the rope in the appropriate direction to help move boat away from obstacle. If on a river and tide is low, then just wait till tide turns and water level increases. All else fails get a passers-by boat to pull your boat off the obstacle.   

 

AHEAD – moving boat in a forward direction.

 

AHOY – cry out loud to draw attention, it’s a term used to hail a boat or a ship, as in "Boat ahoy!"

 

ALEE – boat travelling in opposite direction to the wind (wind direction is called “windward”).

 

ALL HANDS – refers to everyone aboard the boat

 

ALOFT – above the deck area, upper most part of boat

 

ALONGSIDE – boat is pulling up next to another boat or mooring

 

AMIDSHIPS – centre of the boat.

 

ANCHOR (grapnel) – narrowboats (or narrow boats) does not require an anchor, as canal system of the UK is not subject to tidal waves.

An anchor is required if using rivers or coastal waterways, as these are tidal waters and subject to severe currents or waves.

A narrowboat is capable of withstanding waves up to 3 ft.

                           Types of anchors come in different shapes and usages,

Picture is of a typical design                       

 

ANCHORAGE – boat is moored and tied up, or a place suitable for mooring up.

 

ANTIFOULING - will be required if narrow boat is kept afloat for long periods in salt water. Certain freshwater locations can also benefit from an antifouling to minimise problems such as, lime scale and weed fouling. Use of an antifouling product will help to keep the bottom clean and corrosion to the steel at a minimum. Narrowboats using only freshwater waterways only need tarring or bitumen applied to underwater sections of boat.

 

ANNODE – these are bars of lead or zinc alloy, fixed to the underwater side of a boat, to help prevent corrosion to steel parts of boat immersed under water. 

Anodes come in different shapes and sizes.  

 

ASHORE – off the boat and on land

 

ASTERN – moving or looking to the rear of boat (aft).

 

AVAST – Stop! Cease or desist from whatever is being done.

 

AQUADUCT – waterway in the sky mainly used for spanning water over valleys. Very scenic views whilst cruising over them, best to slow boat right down and enjoy. 

 

AWASH – boat is so low in the water that the water is constantly washing across the surface.

 

AWEIGH – to lift anchor from waters bed, hence the saying “anchors aweigh”

 

AYE, AYE – reply to an order or command to indicate that you have heard it and that you understood the command and will carry out the given instructions.

 

 

MAIN MENU

B

 

BACK CABIN - narrow boat term describing the cabin at the stern of the boat, where the crew live, collectively now known as the saloon.

 

BANK (sea floor) – large area of elevated sea floor

 

BANK (side) – refers to sides of canal

 

BAIL – remove unwanted water from boat usually using a bucket or pump

 

BALLAST - Weight carried low in a boat to increase stability. The lower, the greater the benefit. Ballast can be lead, iron, concrete, etc., depending on the space available. Some boats require lead (a more expensive material) because the space available will not allow sufficient lighter material to achieve the required ballast weight.

 

 

BANTAM (boat) – very small tug sized boat designed to push used by British Waterways (B.W), to tow/push dredgers and other maintenance craft having no means of propulsion fitted.

 

BAR – large mass of sand or earth, formed by the surge of the sea, mostly found at the entrances of great rivers or havens, and often render navigation extremely dangerous

 

BARGE - boat which is over seven feet wide usually flat-bottomed. Mainly used for river and canal transport of heavy goods.There are over a hundred different types of barge, traditional barges have no engines fitted and will be pulled along by a tug.

 

BARGE (association) - previously known as the Dutch Barge Association (DBA)

 

 

 

 

 

BARGE DERRICK – a narrow boat with a crane fitted, used as a maintenance boat.

 

BASIN – junctions (inlets) off the main canal system (marinas etc).

 

BASTARD (boats) - or Statters (12' / 3.65 m beam; wide boats on Manchester, Bolton & Bury)

 

BATTENS - thin strips of wood affixed to interior in a boat hull. Used for fixing the plywood facing sheets.

 

BATTEN DOWN – secure loose fittings and hatches on deck and below

 

BATTERIES – a boat usually has 2 banks of batteries which may consist of one battery which starts the engine (starting) and any number of batteries (service) that control the 12 volt system. Obviously the more service batteries there are the more power life of the 12 volt system and inverter usage.  The service batteries are usually leisure batteries, this type of battery holds the charge longer so more power life, but they do need a lot more time than ordinary batteries to be recharged. The engine battery will be a normal battery (same as fitted in a car) this battery needs to charged up quickly so as be fully charged at all times.

 

BAY - enclosed body of water with a wide mouth leading to the ocean.

 

BEAM - the maximum width of a boat.

 

BEACON - lighted or unlighted fixed aid/light attached directly to the earth’s surface for help with navigation  and positioning of boat

 

BED HOLE - cupboard space in a canal narrow boat cabin having a door which drops down to a horizontal position to form the base of a bed inside the cabin.

 

BELOW – inside of the boat, (beneath the deck).

 

BERTH – place for a person to sleep, so a narrowboat with 4 berths means it’s suitable for 4 people to sleep in

 

BILGE – area or (pan) underneath the engine, boats are fitted with a bilge pump (to extract all the water out which has possible come through the propeller shaft seal). To use the bilge pump simply find the switch which should marked “bilge” located on the board next to all the controls (control panel) for your engine. You should empty the bilge every day as water accumulates a lot.  

 

BILGE (pump) – either electrical or mechanical pump used to empty the water out that has accumulated under the engine.

 Small electrical bilge pump.

 

BIMINI - weather-resistant fabric stretched over a stainless steel frame, fastened above the cockpit of a cruiser/sailboat and serves as a rain or sun shade.

 

BOAT – refers to a small craft, from a rowing boat to fishing boat

 

BOAT PLATE - identifying plate with a name or number (C.I.N) (craft identification number)  affixed (welded) externally to inland waterways craft. Builders now hide an extra “boat plate” within the interior of the boat for identification of stolen boats.

 

BOOKS (narrowboat) -Useful books on all subjects of boating; Visit:

Here you will find books all about narrowboats  http://www.boatstogo.co.uk/cgi-bin/apf4/amazon_products_feed.cgi?Operation=ItemSearch&Keywords=narrow+boats&SearchIndex=Books

 

BOATERS – terminology for people using narrowboats and other craft on the UK inland waterways. Everybody on the canal, talk and help each other. It matters not whether you are a novice or a professional. One of the great things on the canals is the friendliness.

 

BOATERS (voting) – You can still register to vote, just cause you live on a boat does not effect your right to vote.

 

BOATMANS CABIN – a bedroom space at the very rear of boat (stern end), the engine in these types of boat are fitted midway.

 

BOAT SAFETY SCHEME (B.S.S) - is like a boating version of the MOT (vehicle testing). It sets standards for boats, their installations and components, which you must meet before obtaining a cruising licence (B.S.C). The scheme is designed to minimise the risks of fires or explosions on boats. The standards combine essential safety requirements and best safety practice advice. They include criteria for boat systems such as electrical installations, inboard/outboard engines, appliances, ventilation and fuels. The full set of BSS requirements applies to every boat based on British Waterways and Environment Agency waterways. All new boats should already comply with the requirements. From then on, examinations are required once every four years. Boats with no gas, electrical or fuel systems are exempt. Find an examiner in your area http://www.abse.org.uk/findmember.htm

 

BOAT SAFETY CERTIFICATE (B S C) – boat safety certificate issued after examination of craft. Specifies requirements on all sorts of things concerning the engine installation, electrical system, fire fighting kit, fuel lines, gas fittings, ventilation etc. The certificate is valid for 5 years from the date of issue. The current examiners fee is around £60. Find an examiner in your area http://www.abse.org.uk/findmember.htm

 

 

BOAT SAFETY EXAMINER (B S E) – person, who inspects your boat to see it meets all safety requirements, then issues a B.S.C if all requirements are met. Find an examiner in your area http://www.abse.org.uk/findmember.htm

 

BOATING - boating is an inexact science and so no-one gets it right all the time. But nobody worries and the boat is built to withstand all sorts of bumps and bangs, although it’s not advisable to bump into things deliberately. No experience or qualifications are necessary to use a boat on British Waterways system. There are training facilities for boaters to learn boat handling etc, visit here for more information: http://www.cruisingschool.co.uk/home/home.htm

 

BOATING (accident) -  

If you have an accident

Stop as soon as it is safe to do so

If injuries are sustained by anyone and are serious, call emergency ambulance immediately, dial 999 from any telephone and because you maybe in an isolated spot, note any landmarks/bridge numbers/roads etc which may help with quick response.

Exchange names, addresses and boat licence numbers with everyone involved and anyone who has a good reason to request the information

Contact the authority who manages the waterway

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) investigates all accidents on all UK boats and all accidents in any UK waters, including inland waterways.

All accidents and major injuries must be reported to MAIB by the quickest possible means and serious injuries must be reported within 14 days. MAIB will collect information and decide whether or not to conduct a preliminary examination. This may then lead to a full investigation and report.

MAIB has a dedicated accident reporting line on 023 8023 2527.

MAIB website http://www.maib.gov.uk/home/index.cfm

 

BOATING (days out & things to do) – click on map to find places and days out. http://www.waterscape.com/boating/

 

BOATING (eating out) – list of venues near waterway, click on map and choose your area for nearest place for eating/drinking out. http://www.waterscape.com/eatingdrinking/

Another comprehensive guide is viewable here: http://www.hindandhart.co.uk/pubs.htm

 

BOATING (lessons) - School instructs the Inland Waterways Helmsman's Course, teaches narrowboat handling, the International Certificate of Competence, ICC and CEVNI. An RYA Training Centre offering narrowboat training and instruction. http://www.cruisingschool.co.uk/home/home.htm

 

BOATING (safety) – see Guide (boating)

 

BOAT HOOK – usually a wooden handled pole with a hook on end, used for pushing boat away from bank side or obstacles,  helping to get boat moving when its been grounded.

   Boat hook usually fitted to a wooden or steel pole.

 

BOATERS CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP (BCF) - is a group of Christians who appreciate the inland waterways. BCF was formed in 1995 and now has more than 650 members, with more than 300 privately owned boats, although owning a boat is not a condition of membership. We have members who hire, some who live near a canal, some who crew on other member’s boats, and some who even live abroad. http://www.boaterschristianfellowship.org.uk/

 

BOOKS - for narrow boaters: Informative books on all subjects of boating  http://www.boatstogo.co.uk/cgi-bin/apf4/amazon_products_feed.cgi?Operation=ItemSearch&Keywords=narrow+boats&SearchIndex=Books    (can be purchased here).

 

BOLLARD – upright pillar on bank which can be used to tie boat up to (mooring point)

 

BOOBY HATCH – sliding hatch or cover

 

BOW – the terminology for front end of boat. (Also known as fore-end).

 

BOW LINE – line/rope attached to bow and mooring point

 

BOW LOCKER – small storage space on the front (bow) end of the boat, used for the gas bottles to be stored safely.

Lid covered compartment  (bow locker)

 

BOW THRUSTERS – these are fitted internally or externally to both sides stern (aft) of the boat, basically they are small propeller driven and controlled by small motor (electric mostly). They come in various sizes. They provide trust to either the port or starboard side rear of boat, thus enabling the boat to turn around more easily. Using bow thrusters will take all the fun out of turning a boat around by use of tiller alone.

 

 

 

BOATYARD – yard either with or without a building usually comprising of a crane, boat repair, maintenance facilities, fuel and dry docks.

 

BOLLARD - Wood or metal posts used for tying up boats at locks and moorings.

 

BOLLARD CLEAT - “T” shaped metal fixing on top of bollard, which removes the need to use a knot.

 

BOARDING (wave) - wave that breaks over the deck of the boat.

 

BOARDING – term used for people going onto the boat

 

BOUY – also known as fenders on a narrowboat. Also a floating object of defined shape and color which is anchored at a given position and serves as an aid to navigation.

   Buoys (fenders) come in different shapes and sizes; affixed to the sides of the narrowboat to protect the boat from collision to bank sides and locks etc.

 

BOWSE – to pull or hoist an object using a rope.

 

BRASS MONKEY – refers to very cold weather (freezing) conditions

 

BRIDGE – a structure which spans over an open area (canal for example) to give easy access to other side. Also refers to the inside of  a structure (cabin etc) used for command (steering) of a boat

 

BRIDGES – On the UK canal system, numbers are placed on each bridge these represent where you are on a map. If for any reason you require help in an emergency take a note of the bridge numbers you are between for the emergency services to find you.

Numerous types of bridges will be encountered on your journeys; here are a few of them:

 

Swing and lift bridges, usually a traffic bridge, check that the road’s clear and close the warning barriers if there are any. Don’t forget to open the barriers once the bridge is back in place.

 

Manual swing bridges, these are pivoted on one side and you just push the side that’s not pivoted, making sure bridge is fully open before continuing past, close bridge after use.

 

Manual lift bridges pull the chain hanging from the balance arm. When the bridge is open, unless it’s obvious that there’s a mechanism to stop the bridge from lowering by its self, sit an adult on the arm to keep it raised until the boat’s clear.

 

Mechanised bridges are either opened using the windlass, or are powered and need a “navigation authority facilities key”. Always follow the instructions. With some swing and lift bridges, you can’t move the traffic barriers until you’ve unlocked the control box. And you can’t move the barriers back again until the bridge is back in its original position. Windlass-operated bridges need to be unlocked first, but you must make sure you lock them again before cars are allowed back over. Some modern bridges use wedges to stop them bouncing when cars drive over. You should find instructions at the bridge on how to release them. Always make sure they’re back in place, though, or traffic will damage the bridge mechanism.

 

BRESTING - Two or more boats secured side by side for river navigation or passing through a double lock.

 

BREAKERS - waves that approach shallow water, causing the wave height to exceed the depth of the water it is in, in effect tripping it. The wave changes from a smooth surge in the water to a cresting wave with water tumbling down the front of it.

 

BREAKWATER - structure built to safeguard a harbour/quay by sheltering it from the waves.

 

BRIGHTWORK – wood that has been varnished or metal that has been polished.

 

BRISTOL FASION - term used to describe a clean and orderly boat. Hence the saying; "Shipshape and Bristol fashion"

 

BROAD BEAM (boats) - called "wide boats" on the Grand Union canal, 2.2 m to 4.3 m beam

 

BULKHEAD - an upright wall within the hull of a boat. Bulkheads serve several purposes, increasing structural rigidity of the boat and dividing areas of the boat into different sections.

 

BULWARK – raised part of deck serving as a barrier

 

BUMBOAT (boat) – private boat selling goods.

 

BURDENED VESSEL – a boat which, according to the applicable Navigation Rules, must give way to the privileged vessel, this term has been superseded by the term "give-way". Also relates to a boat loaded with and carrying cargo

 

BURGLAR ALARM – Narrowboats are not really very secure, although most boaters have no problems with break-ins, although it is advisable to fit a burglar alarm. Motion detector alarms are useless as there are too many items inside a boat to set them off especially as the boat moves a lot when being passed by another boat.

As there are only 2 ways into a narrowboat, the fore and aft doors or hatches, the best alarm system would be pressure mats placed in a position to be stood on when entering the boat. Pressure mats have the advantage over door sensors because they also protect your boat if you leave the doors open (which boaters do in the summer months).

 

BUTANE (gas) - liquefied petroleum gas, stored under pressure in a gas bottle, colour of the bottle is usually blue. This form of “LPG“ as it is known ceases to gas at temperatures close to freezing and thus fails to operate appliances.

 Bottle fitted with valve and pipe.

 

BUTTY – un-powered narrow boat pulled by another motorised narrow boat. View a site with information about an historic butty http://home.freeuk.com/braunston/Lucy/

Another site with information on what could be the last wooden “butty” constructed. http://home.freeuk.com/braunston/Raymond/

 

BUYING (a narrowboat) – A new boat will be built to the standards of the EU's Recreational Craft Directive (RCD), which sets out minimum standards for safety and quality, and is compatible with the UK's Boat Safety Scheme. This immediately qualifies it for a waterway licence. You should check that your builder is aware of RCD regulations.

 

Secondhand boats should be purchased after consulting a boat surveyor; most boats will be taken out of the water and inspected thoroughly inside and out. Your insurance and finance company may insist on a full structural survey of an older boat. Unlike a car a log book is not available for a boat, although they do have a C.I.N (craft identification number) which is registered with the waterway authorities once licensed.

The only documents you can expect to be handed to you on completion of sale are the licence, R.C.D, B.S.S certificates if currently in force and a bill of sale.    

DIY boats, you can buy a narrowboat shell, comprising of the steelwork and nothing more. It will generally be painted in primer, with bearers (supports) fitted for the chosen engine. The stern tube, propeller and window openings will be in place. “Sailaway” boats are similar, but with the engine already fitted, they may also have the floor and interior panels fitted.

Purchasing a boat, total payment is expected to be made in one transaction; you can arrange a loan with your bank or building society. If paying for a boat builder’s service, then usually they will require certain increment payments after each stage of build is completed.

Buying from a broker, once a sale is agreed between the broker and the buyer, a deposit is paid by the buyer. This is typically around 10% "subject to survey". If your survey suggests that the boat is materially unsatisfactory, the deposit will normally be refunded. The boat should have a recent Boat Safety Certificate. If it does not have one, make sure you know the extent of the work required.

BUTTY - Non-engine powered boat. Originally a horse towed boat but later towed by another boat.

 

B W – abbreviation for British waterways. British Waterways is a public corporation. Who manage and care for more than 2,200 miles (3,540 km) of canals and rivers in England, Scotland and Wales on behalf of the British people. This website waterscape http://www.waterscape.com/ is now B.W official waterway recreational information website.

B W manages approximately 2,700 moorings & 50,000 boats are presently registered throughout the UK.

 

B W (facilities) - to use certain B W facilities you will need to purchase the following:

 

B W KEY, necessary for all boaters planning to navigate British Waterways' 2,000-mile network of canals. It gives access to their sanitary stations as well as some locks. Approximate cost of key is £5.

HANDCUFF KEY, essential for operating locks in many urban areas, especially Birmingham and the North. They are sometimes known as “water conservation keys” or “anti-vandal keys”. Approximate cost of key is £5.

B W PUMPOUT CARD, this allows one pump out of your boats waste at any BW pump out facility (does not include waterway business pump out machines, such as BWM Ltd). Also, if you have a BW pump out card you can use BW showers for free. Approximate cost of card is £15.

BICYCLES (towpath) – cyclists are allowed to use the towpath so beware you do not get run over or worse pushed into the water.

 

 

MAIN MENU

C

 

CABIN – compartment used for sleeping in (bedroom), commonly known in older days as “boatmans cabin”. Also refers to enclosed room situated on deck

 

CALORIFIER (tank) - basically one sealed tank inside another, the inner tank (full of cold clean water) having water pipes all around it. Hot water generated from either the stove (fire) or engine is passed around these pipes and heats the cold water in inner tank). The cold water can also be heated by an immersion heater (element inside inner tank) usually 240 volts controlled.

Tanks are either round for free standing application or square for flat application (as under the bed area).

 

CANAL – are man-made channels of water, for history of canals visit here: http://www.boatstogo.co.uk/canal-history/canal.html. They are usually deepest in the centre of straight sections and on the outer side of bends, try to avoid cutting across the shallow corners of bends. Your boat will steer more easily and travel more quietly (less engine revs equals more fuel economy) in the deeper water. You may occasionally meet deeper traditional boats who want the deeper water, skippers of these vessels will usually communicate via hand signals, horn or shouting, there is a system of horn blasts few people know, see section on HORN for signal details.

CANALS (worldwide) List of authorities and societies plus facts etc about canals around the world. http://www.library.northwestern.edu/transportation/maritime_bib/formatted/canals.html

CANAL (ring) – community of internet people discussing topics & information all about canals and boating in general. Also a name given to a series of canals which make a complete loop. The term has become particularly prevalent since the use of canals for pleasure cruising. The Four Counties Ring a great favourite with boaters, this is a fascinating tour through timeless English countryside and traditional towns, featuring the best of Cheshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire and the West Midlands. Typically boat hire companies benefit from being on a canal ring because its customers do not have to return on the same waterways they went out on. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canal_ring

CANAL PACKET (boat) – view a site with ongoing project to recreate the famous canal packet boat, http://www.bream.org/

 

CANAL (nature & conservation) - Natural England work for people, places and nature, to enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas; promoting access, recreation and public well-being, and contributing to the way natural resources are managed so that they can be enjoyed now and in the future. Natural England is working towards the delivery of four strategic outcomes, which together deliver on their purpose to conserve, enhance and manage the natural environment for the benefit of current and future generations.  http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/about/default.htm

CANAL (picture postcards old/new) – a Collectors Circle who were founded in 1978 to promote the study of British Canals and Inland Navigations through picture postcards old and new. http://www.gongoozler.org/

 

CANAL (wildlife) - The Basingstoke Canal is recognised internationally as a vitally important site for wildlife. It has more species of aquatic plants than any other waterway ... http://www.basingstoke-canal.org.uk/wildlife.htm

CANAL (wildlife survey 2007) - As well as the more common birds, animals and insects you’d expect to see by the canal including hundreds of people recording herons, mallards, swans, coots, geese, moor hens, toads and dragonflies, 32 people spotted the nationally endangered water vole, 39 saw bats, 58 spotted grass snakes, 69 glimpsed kingfishers, 16 recognised terrapins and eight people reported spying an otter. http://www.britishwaterways.co.uk/newsroom/stories/wildlife_survey_results.html

 

CANVAS – sheeting used for covering open spaces to prevent water from entering

 

CAPSIZE – when a boat turns upside down

CAST OFF – to remove mooring ropes and prepare to move boat. Remember to unhook the shore mains (240 volt) power line before casting off. Remember to remove any necessary objects like chimney stack or T.V ariel  etc which may not pass under low bridges.

 

CATAMARAN – a boat with two hulls.

 

CAPTAIN – person in charge of boat, legally responsible for boat and its occupants.

 

CAULKING - material used to seal the seams in a wooden vessel, making it watertight. Still used on older wooden boats

CAVITATION - type of drag on a propeller caused by air bubbles forming near the tips of the propeller which is spinning too fast. Causing inefficiencies and unnecessary wear and tear on the propeller.

 

 

C E (certification) - boats built after June 1998 must be certified by the builder as complying to European CE standards. Boats built to these standards do not require a Boat Safety certificate (B.S.C) for the first four years. Only new D.I.Y boats which do not need to be CE marked will require a Boat Safety Certificate and may not be sold for five years from the date of completion without being bought up to CE standards.

  C.E plate will be displayed in newer narrowboats and will be stamped with relevant boat and builders details.

 

CENTER LINE - imaginary line which runs from bow to stern along the middle of the boat.

 

CBOA (Commercial Boat Operators Association) - is the prime trade organisation involved in the effort to sustain and increase freight carriage on our waterways for economic and environmental usage. http://www.cboa.org.uk/

 

CERTIFICATE - legal paper or license for a boat or given to a person who has passed an exam to do with boating.

 

CHAFE – wear and tear caused by the friction of parts moving past each other.

 

CHANDLERY - store which sells boat gear and equipment.

 

CHANNEL - a body of water deep enough for navigation through an area otherwise not suitable. It’s usually marked by a single or double line of buoys and sometimes by range of markers. Also known as deepest part of a stream, bay, or strait, through which the main current of water flows

And a name also given to a large strait, for example, the English Channel.

 

CHANNEL MARKER - buoy or other marker used to mark a navigable path through a waterway.

 

CHARTS or MAPS – of the British waterways are available HERE: http://www.boatstogo.co.uk/cgi-bin/apf4/amazon_products_feed.cgi?Operation=ItemSearch&Keywords=map+british+waterways&SearchIndex=Books

If you are uncertain when you get to a particular junction, just ask remember the locals are friendly.

 

CHILDREN - Just love to drive and steer the boat, under supervision of course (and where else could they do that?). If you have active children try a canal with plenty of locks and see how long it takes to master them. It is very rare for children to get bored since there is always something for them to do and the environment is new. Driving, locking, tying up, planning, pushing off, walking or just keeping the narrowboat shipshape. But where you have youngsters be sure to have life jackets. As boats come in long lengths and its very hard to see exactly what’s going on at the bow end of boat, make sure you keep an eye on their whereabouts as they could easily fall overboard and be hit by the boat. Always make sure young children stay well away from an empty lock especially as they will be very inquisitive and unaware of the danger of falling into a deep hole.

If children are venturing away from the boat, make sure they go with a friend who can help you if their in trouble. Always make sure you know where they are going and when they will be back. Make sure they return before dark as the canal path can be treacherous and chances are at night they might not remember exactly where you have moored.

 

CHILDREN (waterway activities) a website called “WOW”(known as wild over water), were youngsters can find fun games and help with waterway projects. Through the games they learn the safety aspect of waterways. http://www.wow4water.net/kids_index1.php

Another good site from Australia’s royal Life saving Society is great for kids to learn water safety while playing games/activities etc.

http://www.royallifesaving.com.au/www/html/487-kids-online.asp

 

CHANDLERS (boating) – marine retail shops selling parts/fixtures and equipment for a boat.

 

CHANDLERY (boating) – parts/equipment/fixtures related to a boat. Example: lighting/brass fittings/ 12 volt parts etc.

 

CHIMNEY – large chimneys are removable so as boat can pass under small headed bridges etc. Some will be decorated with roses & castles design. See roses & castles.

 

CHOP - Small, steep disorderly waves caused by strong winds. Hence the saying; its “choppy out today”

 

C I N - Unlike a car a log book is not available for a boat, although they do have a “C.I.N” (craft identification number) which is registered with the waterway authorities once licensed. A plate with the C.I.N number stamped on it is usually welded to stern (rear) of boat. Builders now hide another C.I.N plate inside the boat for identification of stolen boats.

 

COACH LINE – markings (lines) can be adhesive strips or painted lines on the side of a narrowboat.

 

COAST – region of land near the ocean.

 

COASTAL NAVIGATION - allowing one to find one's position by use of landmarks and other references when near the coast.

 

COCK - valve used to regulate the flow of water or gas

 

COCKPIT – Open or covered space at the rear of a narrowboat's aft cabin.

 

COIL – to form lay down line (rope) in circular way

 

COLD FRONT - used in meteorology terms to describe a mass of cold air moving toward a mass of warm air. Strong winds and rain typically accompany a cold front.

 

COLLISION – when a boat hits an object it’s not meant to

 

COME ABOUT – to change a boats direction

COMFORT – narrowboats are what you make them and can be comfortable all year around. They usually contain a fixed double bed, couch or comfy chairs to sit on so it’s just like being at home except in a smaller space. Also with a wood, coal or diesel stove fitted small amount of area within a boat becomes very cosy and warm in winter months.

 

COMPUTER - is there a narrowboat nowadays that doesn’t have a computer on board?

Ideal for the kid’s usage, they do not have to be connected to the Internet.

You can connect to the Internet in various ways if you so wish, if using a private mooring most of these sites now have wireless (WI-FI) access to the Internet.

You can also connect via your phone; contact your phone service provider all of whom now offer WAP connections (Internet access) at reasonable costing.

Once you have a WAP account setup on your phone, simply connect phone to computer via a lead and surf the Internet from anywhere.

A computer connected to the Internet would be ideal for clicking on the links available from within this publication.   

 

CONTROL PANEL – housing for the throttle, switches etc, and usually located at the rear end of boat (stern).

 

COTTER PIN – small metal pin used to keep other parts from changing their position, such as to keep a nut from turning or a clevis pin from falling out.

 

COUNTIES – Cruising the canal system you will probably pass through different counties, here is a vast list of things to see and do around the UK http://www.boatstogo.co.uk/tourism/visit.html

 

COURSE – direction you’re travelling to a destination.

 

COVE - small sheltered recessed area in the shoreline of ocean.

 

COWLS - scoop like devices used to direct fresh air into a boat.

 

CRADLE - frame to support a boat when lifting it out of the water.

 

CRATCH - Triangular front board fitted to bow section (front) on a narrowboat, will be covered over with canvas sheet known as (cratch cover).

CREST (wave) – top form of a wave before it breaks

 

CREW – name for members (or deck hands), aboard a boat.

 

CRUISER - boat normally of glass fibre construction with enclosed cabin and steered by a wheel rather than a tiller.

 

CUDDY – very small cabin inside a boat.

 

CURRENT – is the horizontal movement of water (flow).

 

CUT – slang name for canal.

 

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DAMP – to prevent damp within your boat, put salt in a dish and place dish(s) in open space inside cabin, the salt will absorb moisture and help prevent damp.

 

DEAD AHEAD – moving in a straight line ahead (forward).

 

DEAD ASTERN - moving in a straight line backwards (reverse).

 

DECK – external surface which can be walked on (known as “upper deck”). Can also be an internal walkway (known as “lower deck”). Keep upper decks clean and clear of debris (you do not want an injury or worse fall overboard), especially in winter as even non slip floors can be very slippery once covered by rain, ice or snow.

 

DEHYDRATION – sunstroke and alcohol will dehydrate a person, make sure in hot weather you have a supply of fresh water in your water tank; (you did remember to fill the water tank before you started out?)

 

DERRICK – boom mounted on a boat for lifting purposes

 

DEPTH - Most canals are between 3 to 5 feet deep. If you have the misfortune of falling overboard it is best to walk to the side (canal path), do not try to re-enter the boat as this can be dangerous. If you see a crew member fall overboard, do not try to reverse boat to pick them up as they could be injured by the boat itself or the propeller. All children should wear life jackets. Its now a legal requirement to carry a life bouy. See life bouy.

 

DIESEL – is the main fuel used in narrowboats, care should be taken to wipe up any spillages after filling the tank.

Also regularly check the engine and diesel pipes for leakage. Diesel (red) un-taxed so is cheaper, available from many shops and marinas along the canal, sometimes you will see a boat cruise by with fuel and supplies, just flag them down and purchase their wares if required.   

 

DIESEL (tank) - usually fitted at rear (stern) of boat nearest the engine as possible. You will need a key or flat piece of metal to open the brass cap that’s usually fitted so as to be able to fill up.

        Key used for opening the filler cap.

 

DINGHY – usually a small inflatable boat used on coastal waters as a life-raft.

 

DISABILITY (boating) – narrowboats can be fitted or adapted quite easily with means to allow a wheelchair or disabled person easier access to the boat. Some have a ramp fitted to bow end of boat, other method is via a small lift fitted to the centre doors.

 

DISPLACEMENT - The weight of water displaced by a floating vessel, (the boat's weight). A boat displaces an amount of water equal to the weight of the boat, so the boat's displacement and weight are always identical.

 

DOCK (dry) – sheltered area off the main canal, mainly used for dry docking narrowboats, (removing the boat from the water).

   Water has been pumped away leaving dry surface for builders to work.

 

DOCK (coast) – a platform where boats can make fast and securing a boat in said place. Docks are often subdivided into smaller areas for docking known as slips.

 

DOCK (to dock) - the act of entering a dock.

 

DOCUMENTATION - licenses or registration papers for a vessel. Documents vary depending on the country, boat size and purposes.

 

DOLPHIN - a group of piles used for mooring (sea/river related term) or as a channel marker. They consist of a number of piles driven into the seabed or riverbed in a circular pattern and drawn together with wire rope.

 

DOUBLE LOCK – wide locks to increase traffic capacity, capable for 2 boats to enter and use lock together thus decreasing time in usage against a single lock.

 

DOUSE – to extinguish a fire or hose down with water

 

DOWNWIND – to travel in the direction the wind is blowing.

 

 

DRAFT – calculation of the amount of the boat that is underwater.

 

DRAG - a resistance to movement.

 

DRAGGING - description of an anchor that is not securely fastened to the waters bed and moves.

 

DRAW – also known as draft and is the depth of water that a boat requires to stay off the bottom. A boat "draws" a certain amount of water for floatation.

 

DRAWBRIDGE - bridge which is raised vertically to allow boats to pass underneath.

 

DRY ROT – a fungous decay causing seasoned lumber to become brittle and crumble to powder. Dry rot needs extended periods of moisture (fresh water), oxygen, and dry rot spores to thrive.

 

 

DREDGER (scraper) - boat used for dredging and pushing materials across the bed of a waterway to a point where it can be removed or flushed away. Dredgers now have grab buckets fitted and materials dredged can be loaded straight into another boat to be taken away and disposed of.

 

DREDGER (suction) – used for removal of material (debris), usually a mechanical driven vacuum or pump suction apparatus, allowing material to be ejected to land or boat for later dumping.

 

DRIFT – boat is loose from moorings and moving uncontrolled with the wind or current of water.

 

DRYDOCK – area of water formed inland and connected to the waterway, used for boats to manoeuvre into and docked. A gate will then be closed behind boat and the water will be drained off leaving the boat out of water for repair etc.  

 

DRY ROT - decay of wood and is caused by moist conditions in fresh water.

 

DRY STORAGE – boats removed from water and placed under cover. Many small boats are placed in dry storage over the winter (relates to sea craft mainly).

 

DUCTS - tubes used to circulate air within a boat, such as to ventilate an enclosed area.

 

DUTCH BARGE – similar to a narrowboat except wider and usually a lot longer, also has a higher bow line. Not suitable for many canals and mainly used on rivers for live-aboard accommodation.

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EASE – to relax tension on a line (rope)

 

EASE OFF – slow down craft by easing off the throttle

 

EBB – a current (tide) which is receding (going out).

 

ELECTRICAL (switch off) – used on the 240 volt system and commonly known as a dead man switch. Usually a red colored removalable key housed in the engine room and removing the key from switch will disconnect all electrical power to the boat.

 

ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS – a boat is wired with both 240 volt (mains) and 12 volt systems, unless your completely confident about electrics get a professional to look at bad connections etc.

The first check if a problem appears is to check the fuses or trip switches (you do know where the fuse box is?) the fuse box is usually situated in the engine room (disconnect from 240 volt mains or inverter) before checking fuses, all 12 volt checking can be done using a 12v bulb connected to 2 wires, earth one wire to the earth circuit and use the other wire to test the power circuit.

 

ELECTRICAL (narrowboats) - 21st century boating Electric boating is regaining in popularity, and will continue to do so while diesel prices increase and as resources diminish. Diesel has many costs which are not included in the price at the pump such as environmental damage and global conflict.

Today solar powered electric propulsion is a practical, economic alternative to diesel engines on narrowboats. High performance solar panels, batteries, chargers, motors and motor controllers are more affordable than ever. More information available here: http://www.solarnavigator.net/solar_narrow_boat_company.htm

 

 

ELECTRICITY (240 volts) - can originate from connecting to mains from outside of boat (shore power), or through an inverter fitted inside boat which converts 12v (battery power) to 240 volts (main). Before hooking up external electricity to boat, turn off internal boat electricity from fuse box, do the reverse when un-hooking.

Mooring electricity pillars (shore power) along side canal bank side (usually situated at amenity stops), require a swipe card for usage. Card is available for purchase from amenity shop etc, at a price. Do not let the power lead fall into the water and make sure every effort is made to avoid passer bys tripping over it.

 

ELECTRICITY (12 volts) – most boats are fitted with 12 volt DC systems, to distinguish sockets a 12 volt socket is usually coloured differently or a smaller plug is needed to use. Lighting is usually 12 volt and they run entirely of the service batteries fitted to boat. If you have a lot of 12 volt appliances fitted to a boat then upgrading or adding to the service battery bank is a good idea.

 

EMAIL – Back to the subject of computers on board, besides the phone, emailing is a great way to stay in touch with business and socially.

 

EMERGENCY FIRST AID KIT – being far away from other boaters and emergency access, this kit is a must and should be restocked immediately after use. 

A good idea would be for one of the crew members to take a first aid course, these are generally free and do not take much time out to complete. Saint Johns ambulance run regular courses and you can sign up here:

http://www.sja.org.uk/sja/training-courses.aspx

 

ENGINE (general) – typical engine fitted in a narrowboat is a Beta Marine engine, specifically designed to run at low revs and being rated at only 38 hp to 43 hp they give very good economy running. Nowadays the engine has two alternators fitted, one controls charging the service batteries the other the main battery (starting).

Engine is water cooled by use of a keel tank which is feed by hot water from engine, a hose at the top and one at the bottom makes a circular motion of the water inside the tank. This tank is fitted nearest the engine and filled with water (acts just like a radiator in a car) the outer skin of this tank is touching the side of narrowboat and is under the water level, thus cooling the hot water from the engine.

 

ENGINE (starting) – diesel engines need a little help in starting so a glow plug is fitted to the engine. This is basically a device which heats up the diesel fuel so it will ignite easily. When the ignition switch is turned on into the first key position (you will feel a resistance against key turning any further) and usually a small audible noise can be heard, hold in this position for approximately  10 seconds (this is the point at which the glow plug is warming up the fuel to be ignited). After 10 seconds continue turning the key clockwise and engine will start up. Some narrowboats are fitted with an independent button to use the glow plug. Once the engine has heated up and is still hot, further use of the glow plug is unnecessary.

 

ENGINE (control) – narrowboats nowadays have diesel engines fitted, controlled by a single lever which alters engine speed and selects forward, neutral and reverse gears, very simple to use. When throttle/gear lever is in the upright position the engine is in neutral gear (no movement of boat). Pushing the lever forward engages a forward gear automatically and also increases revs to engine, the more forward you push the lever the faster the boat travels forward. The same applies to pulling the lever backwards although this time reverse gear is selected. Proper usage of this lever will give you greater control of the boats movement and stopping ability. Remember to allow plenty of time to slow down or stop a boat (unlike a car they don’t have brakes).

 

ENGINE (emissions) – although there is no emission legislation for narrowboats it’s unadvisable to continue using an engine which is producing black smoke. Reasons being other boaters will be very annoyed and you also run the risk of wrecking the engine itself. Usually remedy for black smoking engine is to renew or recondition the injectors.

 

ENGINE (servicing) – can be arranged and mechanic will visit at your boats location (mooring). You can view just a few breakdown providers here;

http://www.canaljunction.com/boat/engineers.htm#breakdown

 

ENGINE (stopping) – turn ignition key fully anticlockwise and remove key.

 

EVEN KEEL - when boat is floating on its designated waterline, it is said to be floating on an even keel.

 

EQUIPMENT (checks & necessity) - Lifebuoy, lifeline (rope), lifejackets or buoyancy aids.

Anchor for rivers, the rope and chain together should be at least six times as long as the deepest part of the river.

Fire extinguisher and fire blanket.

Emergency shut-offs are working correctly for battery, gas and fuel.

Bilge pump in good working order.

Emergency light

Mooring ropes – long enough to stretch from your boat to the mooring rings and back again. Longer lengths of rope necessary if on river as rise and fall of water is inevitable.

Mooring stakes - hammer.

Horn in good working order.

Spot light is working if travelling through a tunnel.

First aid kit - fully stocked.

Boat pole - preferable with hook at one end.

Gangplank - used for access from boat to shore.

Windlass - winding handle for locks.

 

EXHAUST – narrowboat engines are fitted with an exhaust system (silencer) which usually exits the boat at the rear (stern) if checking a hot engine be careful as the exhaust will still be very hot and liable to burn you.

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FAIR – in good condition

 

FARMLAND – respect farmers land and do not trespass, boats which are moored on farmland side of waterway usually have permission from farmer.

 

FAST – when boat is securely fastened to an object or mooring

 

FASTENING - item such as a nail, screw, rivet or other device used to fasten/lock objects together.

 

FATHOM – measurement equivalent to 6 ft

 

FENDER – these differ from boat to boat, basically they are tyres, thick ropes or plastic type bottles strung over the side of boat to prevent other boats causing damage especially when in a lock. Fenders are also used on the bow or stern of boats to prevent the front or rear end of boat being damaged.

 

FENDER (tip cat) - banana shaped fender, fastened to the stern end of a narrow boat to protect the rudder, not used so often nowadays.

 

FEND OFF - to push away from another boat.

 

FIDDLE - small rail on tables and counters used to keep objects from sliding off

 

FINGER PIER - small pier that projects out from a larger pier.

 

FIRE –A campaign, which was originally launched by Warwickshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, is now officially being rolled out across the country as a part of the national 'Fire Kills' campaign.

“Many boaters are unaware of the dangers that they face on board and the dangers posed to other waterway users as a result of their lifestyles and practices. Providing boat fire safety checks to people living or even taking a holiday on the waterways could mean the difference between life and death!”
The Boat Fire Safety Checks are intended to help boaters to understand the dangers of fire breaking out and the simple preventative actions that can reduce the risk. As such, the BFSC compliments inspections of the fixed fuel, gas and electric installations such as the BSS examination and reviews of safety and emergency equipment like the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) Sea Check.

http://www.fire.gov.uk/Find+my+region.htm

 

FIRST MATE – second person in charge of a boat

 

FISH CLASS (boats) – named after a fish (now historic) and can be viewed here: http://www.bream.org/

 

FISHING – is allowed in designated areas, there will be signs where you are not allowed to fish. Watch out for signs stating power lines above. (signs) you need a fishing licence if over 12years of age to fish the waterways. If you are disabled you can apply for concessionary licences (at a reduced price). Fishing licences are now available for purchase online.

https://www.ea-transactions.gov.uk/angling/rod_license/PurchaseLicence.asp

 

FISHING (where to fish) – click on map and find fishing in area your narrowboat is moored, you need a fishing licence to fish the waterways. http://www.waterscape.com/fishing/

 

FIRST AID – ideally a crew member should be trained in first aid.

Cruising the UK waterways and mostly in country areas, boaters are prone to insect bites so here are a few remedies:

 

Ants & bees: their venom is acid, so apply Bicarbonate of Soda (Baking

Soda) to neutralize the venom.

 

Wasps: Venom is alkaline, so apply vinegar.

 

Centipede stings: (unconfirmed) extremely painful sting, apply

Water as hot as you can tolerate.

 

Small Cuts: clean wound thoroughly using tepid water, dab clean cloth or lint cloth on the wound to stop the bleed, apply “Germolene Ointment” which is recommended for abrasions, cuts and scratches, minor burns and scalds, bites and stings, chapped skin and blisters on hands and feet. Cover wound with bandage and if in doubt about seriousness of cut seek doctor’s advice.

Saint Johns ambulance run regular courses and you can sign up here:

http://www.sja.org.uk/sja/training-courses.aspx

 

FITTING (out) – usually referred to the person who originally constructed all the interior of a boat.

 

FITTINGS (general) - all the internal and external fixtures of a boat.

 

FLOOD – incoming current (tide).

 

FLY (boats) - long and short; used on Aire & Calder

 

FOOD – will deteriorate more quickly on a boat than at home (because of the steel construction of boat) heat from sun will transfer to inside of boat. Therefore refrigerate everything possible.

 

FORE - The front or forward part of a boat.

 

FORECAST - weather prediction.

 

FORE HATCH – enclosed space at front end (bow) of boat, usually used for gas bottle storage compartment.

 

FORWARD (moving boat) – see Throttle also relates to going forward towards the bow.

 

FOUNDER – a boat fills with water and sinks

 

FOULING – narrow boats are fitted with a weed box located in the engine room, usually a small box at the rear of the engine with a one screw connection to hold the inspection lid on. If the propeller gets fouled by debris then just lift the inspection lid of and clear it out. If after clearing out the weed box the propeller still does not turn properly switch the engine of and moor up, you will have to carefully lean over the stern and manually free anything that has wrapped around the propeller.

 

FOUL – the opposite of clear, any piece of equipment that is jammed or entangled with debris etc.

 

FRAME - a structural member which gives the hull strength and shape. 

 

FUEL - See “Diesel”

 

FUEL (tank) – usually fitted at rear (stern) of boat nearest the engine as possible. You will need a key or flat piece of metal to open the brass cap that’s usually fitted so as to be able to fill up.

 

FUSE – several different types and rated fuses are fitted within a narrowboat.

Some being 12 volt dc and others 240 volt ac. Always refit the same rated fuse if blown and never put your own makeup fuse in. If the fuse continues to blow disconnect all appliances on that circuit and replace one by one till a faulty appliance is found. If no appliances are connected and fuse continues to blow seek electrician’s advice.

 

FUSE (boxes) – usually 2 fuse boxes are fitted to a narrowboat, one controlling the 240 volt system and the other controlling the 12 volt system. Both are usually situated in or near the engine or control panel. The 240 volt system is usually fitted with circuit breakers, so a flick of the circuit breaker switch is all that’s needed to restart electricity supply.

 

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GANG PLANK -Removable planks stored on the top of a narrowboat, Planks used for access between the boat and bank side.

 

GALE FORCE - wind speeds strong enough to qualify the storm as a gale.

 

GALE - storm with a wind speed between 34 to 40 knots.

 

GALLEY – (kitchen) whilst most boats come with a fully fitted kitchen, many people choose to eat at the plentiful pubs on the canal side. For many the boats are their major trade and so they provide excellent food at most reasonable prices.

 

GAS – bottles containing butane or propane gas can be purchased from outlets along canal. The bottles are usually stored and should be chained in the front locker (bow). The only appliance that is usually on board which uses this gas is the cooker, although you can get gas fridges and fires.

 

GAS (shutoff valves) – usually one valve under cooker in galley, one in main line towards gas bottle(s) and of course you can shut-off gas by disconnecting at the gas bottles.

 

GATE PADDLE - paddles or sluices (gates) that admit or eject water from a lock. See Locks.

 

GEAR - term for ropes, tackle and other equipment.

 

GEARBOX – a PRM 150 gearbox is usually fitted to a Beta Marine Engine, it is automatic and has only one forward/reverse gear, which is operated by a series of linkages to the throttle control lever on the control panel. See Throttle

 

GENERATOR – electrical or fuelled device used for generating 240 volt electric, commonly used by most boaters who stay long periods of time at one destination.

 

GIMBAL - hinges for objects such as lamps, so that they can remain upright as the boat rolls.

GIVE WAY (vessel) - boat that must yield to another vessel according to navigation rules also known as the burdened vessel.

 

GIVING WAY - approaching a bridge or narrow section, slow down. If a boat coming in the opposite direction is closer to the bridge, wave them through and keep right until they’re well clear. If someone’s waved you through, signal your acknowledgement. On rivers, the boat coming downstream has right of way.

 

GMT - time measured in Greenwich Mean Time. Coordinated universal time is a newer standard and this time standard is not affected by time zones or seasons.

 

GPH – Gallons per hour of fuel consumption.

 

GRAB RAILS - Hand-hold fittings mounted sometimes on roof and sides for personal safety when moving around the boat.

 

GRAPPLING IRON - hook with multiple prongs and tied to a rope, measuring around 10-15 inches. Used for retrieving objects from the canal e.g. dead animals or debris.

 

GROG – old term relating to the drink rum

 

GROGGY – when a person is drunk from having too much rum (grog)

 

GUARD IRONS – usually “D section metal box sections”, welded to the sides and ends of narrowboat to provide protection from impact and abrasion.

 

GUIDE (boating) – British Waterways have produce a booklet (handbook) about safety and usage for boaters which can be accessed here; http://www.boatstogo.co.uk/handbook/britishwaterway_boaters_handbook.html

 

GUILLOTINE GATE - A vertically rising lock or stop gate.

 

GUNNEL (gunwale) – small strip of metal rib (gives strength to boat joint and strong enough to with stand collision damage) which connects the bottom halve of the boat to the upper section. Ideal for walking along but beware can be slippery so hold on tight to the roof section.

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HAIL – call to someone on another boat

 

HANDCUFF KEY – see B W (facilities)

 

HANDBOOK (boating guide) – see Guide (boating)

 

HAND - somebody who helps you with the work on a boat (crew)

 

HAND LEAD - weight attached to a line used to determine depth by lowering it into the water

 

HARBOR – a place used for safe anchorage, which is protected from most storms and tides; with breakwaters and jetties; a place for mooring and loading.

 

HARBORMASTER - individual who is in charge of a harbor.

 

HARD- ALEE - command to steer the boat downwind.

 

HARD OVER – turning the tiller as far as it will turn to either right or left, thus boat will turn in either direction as quickly as possible.

 

HATCH - Rear entrance usually with a sliding roof to gain access to the stern cabin or engine room of a narrowboat.

 

HAUL – pull on a line or shift cargo on a boat

 

HAUL OUT – to remove boat from water

 

HAWSE (hole) - hole in the hull for mooring lines to run through

 

HAZARD - an object which may not allow safe operation of boat or a group of rocks/obstruction just under the water

 

HEAD – name for a marine toilet

 

HEADING - direction in which a vessel's bow points at any given time

 

HEADWAY - the forward direction of a boat. Opposite of sternway

 

HEATING – most new boats are fitted with central heating (radiators), others have a wood/coal or diesel fuelled stove (fire) fitted and because of the small area inside a narrowboat it can get very warm even in winter.

 

HEAVE – a boats up and down movement within the water

 

HEAVE TO - bringing a vessel to a halt where it will maintain little or no headway, usually with the bow (front) into the wind

 

HELM - The tiller controlling the rudder. The person steering the narrowboat is known as the “helmsman”

 

HIGH TIDE – when tide water is at its highest point

 

HIRING (narrowboat) – average costs for a 45ft  in low season (March & October) £500 per/week, raising to £900 over in high season (July/August). You can add approximately another £250 to totals for narrowboats over 45 ft.

FUEL AND DAMAGE DEPOSIT:
A returnable deposit of £100.00 in total is usually required (this differs from hirers)(Credit card payments will have a non returnable 2% added, depending on hirer) deposit will be returned, less the cost of fuel used, if the boat and its equipment come back clean, undamaged, and at the stated time and place. DELAYED VACATION OF THE BOAT COULD INCUR A CHARGE £10.00 PER HOUR (depending on hirer).

Insurance up to £1,000,000 is included in most hire charges, excepting that the first £100.00 (depending on hirer) of each and very claim is the responsibility of the hirer.

 

HISTORIC (canal boats) – club concerned with the preservation, restoration and use of working and ex-working narrow boats. http://www.hnboc.org.uk/

 

HITCH – knot used to secure a rope to another object or to another rope

 

HOIST – to lift or raise, when a boat is removed from water by a crane it’s said to be hoisted from the water.

 

HOLD - compartment below deck in a larger narrowboat, used solely for carrying cargo etc

 

HOLDING GROUND – condition of waters bed that the anchor is set in. "Good holding ground."

 

HOLDING TANK - storage tank where sewage is stored until it can be removed to a treatment facility

 

HORN –

1 blast = going to the right

2 blasts = going to the left

3 blasts = I’m trying to stop or go backwards

4 blasts – pause – 1 blast = turning round to the right

4 blasts – pause – 2 blasts = turning round to the left

1 long blast + 2 short blasts = I can’t manoeuvre

1 extra long blast = warning at tunnels, blind bends and junctions

 

HORSEDRAWN (narrowboat) – before the introduction of engine driven narrowboats, horses would pull the boats by being attached to the boat via a rope, the horse would walk along the bankside. A site devoted to horse drawn boats and their restoration can be viewed here; http://www.saturnrestoration.org.uk/

 

HORSE BOATING (society) - for over 200 years, from around 1740, horse drawn boats were one of the main forms of transporting goods. However, the convenience of motor-powered boats has meant that a horse drawn boat is a rare sight on most of our canals today. The Horse boating Society exists to promote horse boating and to preserve the heritage and skills of this once common form of transport. http://www.horseboating.org.uk/

 

HORSESHOE BUOY- floatation device shaped like a U and thrown to people in the water in emergencies

 

HOUSEBOAT – permanently moored large boat or floating structure with accommodation designed in many forms and shapes, used for live-aboard and generally has no engine fitted.

 

HULL – complete body of the boat not including the deck or cabins, the watertight part of boat

 

HYDROFOIL – a boat with wing-like foils mounted on struts below the hull.

HYPOTHERMIA - life-threatening condition in which the body's warming mechanisms fail to maintain normal body temperature and the entire body cools, can be easily contracted in winter months if narrowboat is not heated adequately

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ICE (boat) – history and pictures found here: http://www.abc.se/~m10354/mar/iceboat/niffany2.htm

 

INBOARD – cruiser or small craft with an inboard engine

 

INBOARD OUTBOARD (drive system) – a larger power boating alternative drive system to transom mounted outboard motors and allowing 2 engines to run as one

 

INFLATABLE - dinghy or raft that can be inflated or deflated, used for easy stowage.

 

INLAND RULES – mandatory rules for boats to obey in harbors, rivers or lakes.

 

INLAND - surrounded by land (ashore) away from shore waters

 

INLET - bay or cove along a river, ocean or lake coast line, also a narrow passageway between to bodies of land.

 

INLAND WATERWAYS ASSOCIATION of IRELAND (IWAI) - a voluntary body of waterways enthusiasts, founded in 1954. Whether a boat enthusiast, historian, archaeologist, or fisherman, you will find something here of interest. http://www.iwai.ie/index.php

INLAND WATERWAYS ADVISORY COUNCIL (IWAC) - Advising Government, navigation authorities and others about the use and development of the inland waterways of England, Wales and Scotland. http://www.iwaac.org/

 

INLAND WATERWAYS INTERNATIONAL (IWI) - brings together people and organisations that support the conservation, use, development and proper management of inland waterways worldwide. It aims to raise public awareness of the benefits of using waterways for a wide range of activities, from inland shipping to pleasure cruising, towpath walking and other recreational uses. It also promotes restoration, where appropriate, of waterways which have become derelict. Its membership includes leading navigation authorities, as well as voluntary bodies, museums and commercial companies. Individual members include both users and experts in the various disciplines. All have a keen interest in both the history and the modern significance of inland waterways for commercial carrying and leisure use. Today the membership covers 15 countries from around the world. http://www.inlandwaterwaysinternational.org/

 

INSIDE TURN (inside) - is a boaters term for the towpath side of the canal, thus an inside turn is one where the deep water is nearest the towpath.

 

INSULATION – earlier type narrowboats were insulated by using fibre glass sheets or wool, nowadays foam spraying is the used method.

 

INSURANCE - You also need to arrange third party insurance for at least £1,000,000. This will safeguard the owner or person in charge of the boat from claims made against you for injury or damage. You may choose to take out a comprehensive policy to cover your own boat and crew. Boat insurance is often cheaper than car insurance, but will vary according to the age and type of boat.

INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY – (ICW) rivers and canals along the coast connected to the sea, so that boats may travel along them without going into the sea.

INVERTER – fitted to most narrows today and used to run Appliances at 240 volts (main). Inverter converts 12 volts dc (battery power) into 240 volts ac (mains) power. The wattage rating of the inverter dictates how many appliances you can run before it cuts out from overload. An inverter rated at 1800 watts or over is ideal for general usage. Beware though the more appliances you run whilst using the inverter the more your service batteries will deteriorate in total volts available, so you need to either run engine a lot to recharge batteries or connect to a landline (240 volt source) as soon as possible.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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JETTY - A structure, usually wooden, projecting out from land into the water were boats can be easily accessed once moored.

 

JOSHER - name for narrowboats owned and built by Fellows, Morton and Clayton at their Saltley dock in Birmingham.

 

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KEDGING - A method of pulling a boat out of shallow water when it has run aground using another boat as the anchor and pulling the stranded boat until it floats

 

KEEL – central structure of a boat (mainly relating to larger boats and yachts etc)

KEELS (boat) – used on Aire & Calder

 

KEELSON - beam attached to the top of the floors to add strength to the keel on a wooden boat.

 

KEY (12 volt shutoff) – usually located near engine or on control panel, the key is usually plastic and can be removed. Once the key is inserted and turned clockwise the 12 volt system is live. Turn the key anti clockwise (switching 12 volt system off, engine will not start) and remove key before doing any electrical work especially to Invertor. The key once removed is not a substitute for thinking nobody will be able to start-up and take your boat away, as nearly all keys are the same for other narrowboats.

 

KING PLANK - center plank of a wooden decked boat.

 

KITCHEN – see Galley

 

KLAXON - device designed to make a warning noise. See Horn

 

KNOT (speed) – nautical term for the speed of a boat; with a measured speed equal to one nautical mile (6076 feet) per hour.

 

KNOT (rope) – there is many types of knot that can be used for mooring a boat, most commonly used is the slip knot which allows easy untying of ropes.

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LABOR - heavy rolling or pitching whilst boat is underway and relates to mainly river and ocean waves affecting boat

 

LADE HOLE - A well in the floor (or shutts) of a narrowboat to facilitate pumping out.

 

LAID UP – boat is in dry dock or out of water

 

LAND LUBBER – person unfamiliar with being on the water

 

LANDMARK - point on land that can be used for navigation reference.

 

LASH – tying ropes together or tie to a line

 

LASHER - A weir, see Weir

 

LATERAL CANAL - running alongside a river and using its supply of water.

 

LAUNCH – to place boat into the water

 

LAY – position of boat to other boats

 

LAY UP – preparing boat for winter storage and refers mainly to none live aboard boats

 

LEAD LINE – lead weight on end of line to test depth of water

 

LEAGUE – unit of length, equal to three nautical miles.

 

LEE – sheltered side from the wind.

 

LEECLOTHS - material raised along the side of a boat to keep the occupants from falling overboard.

 

LEE SIDE – side of boat sheltered from the wind

 

LEE SHORE- wind is blowing towards the shore and its important to keep distance from the lee shore because the boat will be blown toward it if control of the vessel is lost.

 

LEEWARD - direction away from the wind. Opposite of windward

 

LEEWAY - sideways movement of the boat caused by either wind or current.

 

LENGTH – see Narrowboats

 

LET THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG – to break bad news (the "cat o' nine tails" being taken out of the bag by the bosun in older days was bad news, announcing a flogging)

 

LIE – where a boat is positioned

 

LICENCE – A licence is required in all circumstances to use a boat on the UK waterways.

Licences are available

Before you launch your boat, you need to buy a licence (or registration). This allows you to cruise around and to keep your boat on the waterways.

Almost all of Britain's waterways are run by three main organisations, each of which issues its own licences and registrations.

·                     British Waterways runs almost all the canals, and rivers such as the Severn, Trent and Yorkshire Ouse.

·                     The Environment Agency runs the River Thames, the River Medway, and the rivers of East Anglia.

·                     The Broads Authority runs the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads.    

Just like a road tax disc, you will need to provide evidence that your boat meets safety standards (the Boat Safety Scheme) and has third-party insurance before being issued with a licence.

 

There are several different types available:

 

Continuous cruising approximate cost (£570 p/a). Thus avoiding paying council tax and mooring costs this licence is cheaper than others, used for not mooring up more than 14 days at one location and requires you to move equivalent of 10 lock miles away from last mooring.

Thus short trips within the same area, “bridge hopping” and shuttling backwards and forwards along a smaller part of the network does NOT meet the legal requirement for continuous cruising.

 

Long term, boat is licensed for the whole year (used mainly by live aboard boaters). The boat can be moored for any length of time at any appropriate mooring sites. Council tax is payable at this type of mooring and will be liable to a discount depending on the local authority.

 

Business, this licence allows businesses with more than one boat opportunity to decrease the total fee of licensing individual boats.

 

Historic, boats are subject to a discounted licence fee.

 

 

LIFEBOAT- small boat aboard main boat used for emergencies, example being when the main boat is sinking the lifeboat is launched into the water. Also a rescue boat run by RNLI (Royal Navy Lifeboat Institute) and they can be called out by contacting the coastguard telephoning 999 in UK

 

 

LIFE BOUY - a life preserver in the form of a ring of buoyant material, attached to a suitable strength of rope. On a narrowboat it’s kept near as possible to skipper (helmsman/captain) so as to be able to be thrown overboard in case of emergency to rescue people in water.

LIFE LINE – any rope/line thrown or attached to person who has fallen overboard

 

LIFE JACKET - device used to keep a person afloat. Also called a life preserver, life vest, or personal floatation device (PFD)

 

LIFE PRESERVER - device used to keep a person afloat. Also called a life preserver, life vest, or personal floatation device (PFD)

 

LIFE VEST - device used to keep a person afloat. Also called a life preserver, life vest, or personal floatation device (PFD)

 

LIFERAFT - small inflatable boat aboard main boat used for emergencies, example being when the main boat is sinking the liferaft is launched into the water. If in problems at sea the RNLI (Royal Navy Lifeboat Institute) can be called out by contacting the coastguard telephoning 999 in UK

 

LIFE VEST - device used to keep a person afloat. Also called a life preserver, life vest, or personal floatation device (PFD)

 

LIFT - boater's term for a lock staircase. Can also refer to boat lifts,

Anderton lift, is capable of moving narrowboats to a higher level in one go thus avoiding the need of several locks to do same job.

Anderton Lift http://www.andertonboatlift.co.uk/

 

 

LIGHTHOUSE – navigational aid (beam of light) to give land references to boats at sea in fair and bad weather conditions

 

LIGHTS - Narrowboat navigation lights (spot light on bow of boat) are fitted for travelling through dark tunnels and in low light conditions.  

 

 It’s best not to cruise in the dark. If you do, you must get information from the navigation authority in charge of your waterway.

 

LINE - rope used aboard a boat

 

LINER – ocean going passenger ship

 

LIST - inclination of a boat due to excess weight on one side or the other

 

LITTER – will degrade the beauty of the canal don’t throw any waste overboard; food can take a long period of time to rot. Litter can kill wildlife, and it can cause problems for other boaters by getting tangled in their propellers. There are plenty of waste disposal points at marinas, moorings and along the waterway.

 

LOA – refers to the overall length of boat (measured from bow to stern)

 

LOADED TO THE GUNNELS - having a boats cargo loaded high to full capacity. Also means extremely drunk.

 

LOCKER – any upright storage area inside boat

 

LOOKOUT - designated person responsible to watch out for other vessels and hazards.

 

LOCKS - construction for navigating between different water levels on rivers and canals using controlled changes in water levels to float the boat to its new level. Narrowboats either descend or raise to the level of the water in the next part of canal, (water in the canals is not of the same level) so to go upwards to a higher water level, using a metal lever (a “windlass” which should be carried on boat at all times) this slots into a system of gears and cogs located near the gates, which when turned opens an underwater door (or “paddle”) to let the higher level canal water pour into the lock. Once the levels are equal, open the gates by pushing the large wooden length connected to the gates, close the paddles after boat has exited lock (unless another boat is waiting to travel down the lock). Don’t forget to take windlass back to your boat. Locks can take as little as 15 minutes to negotiate. But in busy periods be prepared for long delays. Beware when you are going up a lock not open the gate whilst the front deck of your boat is liable to be flooded by incoming water. Try positioning your boat centrally within the lock and avoid getting boat caught on either of the gates as water fills or empties.

The reverse method is used for descending down a level in the lock.

Most locks also have ground paddles alongside the gates (they let the water in slowly first and are situated below the level of main paddle gates). In this sort of lock, you must use the ground paddles first to partly fill the lock. Wait till the gate paddles are under water then you can open the main gate paddles (full force of water filling lock) safely without fear of swamping boat.

 

When you wind up a paddle don't leave the windlass on the paddle. The safety catch on the paddle gear could slip off and the windlass would spin rapidly and fly through the air. People have been badly injured by flying windlasses. If the boat gets caught up or there are any other reasons for concern, immediately close the paddles.

It’s sometimes possible to get two smaller boats end-to-end in a narrow lock, but check that you both have enough room to avoid the cill and gates. The heavier boat should always go in first, so that the water flow doesn’t pull it into the lighter boat. In broad locks, boats should be kept to the side with ropes looped round the bollards. Open the two paddles equal amounts, at the same time where possible – and slowly.

Double locks can accommodate 2 boats at a time, allow the first boat to enter lock and once there is room for your boat to enter cruise in slowly.

 

Most novice boaters evacuate the boat and tie a rope to the bow and stern when boat is in lock so and control the boats movement whilst lock is filling or emptying by use of the ropes.

Experienced boaters will remain with boat and use the engine in forward and reverse gear to control the movement.

Diagram of a typical lock with gates:

Beware of boat grounding on the “cill”

 

Diagram of paddle gear:

Releasing the safety catch, wind the paddle up a little further, take the strain with the windlass, then lift the safety catch up and wind the paddle down the other way slowly.

When using the windlass keep a firm grip and don’t let go. Only use a windlass that fits the spindle snugly and make sure the windlass is slotted onto the spindle fully. Always use the safety catch correctly.

 

LOCK WHEELER – person (crew member) who goes ahead (originally on a bike) to get locks ready for use.

 

LONG (boats) - narrow boats used on Severn

 

LOW TIDE – when the incoming water is at its lowest point and opposite to that of high tide

 

L P G (gas) – liquefied petroleum gas

 

LULL –windless period usually followed by upstart of wind speed and direction

 

LYING AHULL–riding out a storm by simply letting the boat drift with the current/wind

 

LYING TO – boat is almost stationary with bow into the wind, boat maybe at anchorage

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MAIL – postal services are not available directly to the boat, but you can arrange with various marinas, shops etc to receive your mail to be picked up personally.

 

MAKE FAST – attach a line/rope to an object to secure boat (mooring etc)

 

MAKE WAY – boat moving through the water

 

MAN OVERBOARD – a cry to alert everyone on board that someone has fallen off the boat into the water

 

MAPS – See Charts A quick view map of England’s waterway system is available here; http://www.jim-shead.com/waterways/Inland-Waterways-of-England.html

 

MARINA – place where you can moor a boat for a price, usually used by live aboard boaters for their security, privacy and amenities available. Also usually offers boat sales on site.

 

MARINE (engine) - an engine purposely designed for use in boats.

 

MARINE – UK marine subjects available at British Marine Federation (B.M.F). http://www.britishmarine.co.uk/

The British Marine Federation is the trade association for the UK Marine Leisure Industry, with their membership drawn from both the seagoing and inland sectors of the marine industry, and supporting services. “Marine” also relates to all subjects connected with water and boating.

 

MASTER – person in charge of boat (captain)

 

MATE – assistant to captain

 

MAYDAY - internationally recognized distress signal used on a radio to indicate a life threatening situation. Mayday calls have priority over any other radio transmission and should only be used if there is an immediate threat to life or vessel. Mayday calls are only used whilst at sea and in the UK calls for help will be redirected to attention of RNLI  rescue. For inshore emergencies dial 999 in the UK and ask for appropriate service to respond

 

MEAN - average

 

METEOROLOGY - study of weather and where most of the weather forecast derive from

 

MIDSHIP - Approximately in the centre of the boat with equally distances from the bow and stern. In a narrowboat this is usually the galley area (kitchen).

 

MODEL (boats) - http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/ site for information about shows, individual model boat makers and model boat kits etc.

 

MODERNISATION – there are still plenty of old buildings which can be seen whilst cruising. British waters are responsible for the upkeep and modernisation of most of the UK waterway system.

You can view their progress and future plans here:

http://www.britishwaterways.co.uk/waterways/index.html

 

MONKEY BOAT - Slang term for a typical narrowboat.

 

MONOHULL- boats that have only one hull, as opposed to multihull boats such as catamarans or trimarans.

 

MOOR – attach and make fast a boat to a mooring point

 

MOORINGS – Private moorings are usually priced according to boat length and market demand, and there are waiting lists in most popular locations.

You will not usually be issued with a licence unless you have a permanent mooring. However, if you have no ties (such as jobs or children at school), you can opt to cruise the canals non-stop, never staying at the same place for more than a fortnight. British Waterways has a special set of guidelines for such boaters. When you are on the move and looking for overnight stopping places, you may moor up on canal towpaths free of charge. There may be a small fee on some rivers, such as the Thames. Permanent moorings do attract council tax which you will have to pay. Landowners on opposite side of canal bank allow moorings on their property; you will have to approach these people directly for more information. Berth search http://www.berthsearch.com/ has been initiated for the convenience of boat owners, to assist them in finding a suitable berth in the area of their choice. Marina and mooring operators, who are Members of The Yacht Harbour Association and the British Marine Federation, have been given the opportunity of listing their available berths on this website.

MOORING BUOY – floating object secured to a permanent anchor sunk deeply into the bed of water where boat can be tied up to.

 

MOORING LINE - line/rope used to secure a boat to an anchor, or mooring.

 

MOORING UP - Don’t moor on the opposite side of canal path, unless there are proper mooring facilities (these are usually private moorings so ask first).

There are 2 types of moorings available along the canal. Temporary mooring spaces (sign posted “short stay”) these are free and you can moor up for 14 days but then you most move on.

Long stay moorings can be moored on for as long as you like, subject to charge though from British Waterways.

Don’t moor:

 In lock approaches or in lock flights.

 Near swing or lift bridges.

 Near weirs

 Near sharp bends

 By blind spots

 In or opposite turning points

 At junctions

 Approach to a bridge

 To the bank on a tidal river, when the tide goes out the ropes will no longer be of length and boat will be hanging and if mooring on low tide when tide comes in ropes will be to slack.

 In stretches marked out for an angling match.

 Try to stay 50 feet (15m) away from established angling spots.

River moorings are usually much more restricted and you normally should only moor on public moorings, which may be charged for.

MOORING PIN - metal pin to tie mooring ropes to, it’s either fixed to the boat or hammered into the bank.

 Typical pin

 

MOORING SPIKES – as the name suggests these are usually steel spikes which you hammer into the bank side, where no mooring rings etc are available, same usage as “mooring Pin”.

 

MOORING RINGS – embedded into concrete, used for tying up the boat. Beware these are usually concealed by over growth vegetation and very easy to trip over.

 

 

MOTOR - an engine, or of use of an engine to move a boat. Hence the saying “motoring on” when boat is in full movement

 

MOTOR CRUISER – name given to small fibreglass boats, usually fitted with an outboard motor.

 

MOUNT – attachment for another object, or when you place something on another object

 

MUD HOPPER - craft designed to carry waste products of inland waterway maintenance work primarily dredging, see Dredgers

 

MULTIHULL – relates to a boat with more than one hull, such as a catamaran or trimaran.

 

MUSEUM (UK canal) – visit http://www.thewaterwaystrust.org.uk/museums/stoke.shtml

 

MUSEUM (canal boats) – visit http://www.boatmuseum.org.uk/

 

MUSEUM (history) (virtual catalogue) - What are the Virtual Waterways?
The Waterways Archive collects, preserves and makes publicly available rich and diverse records in many forms, including plans, drawings, accounts, photographs and audio-visual recordings. At its core are the archives of British Waterways and the early canal companies, which trace the history of Britain‘s inland waterways back to its very roots. http://www.virtualwaterways.co.uk/home.html

 

MUSEUMS (around the UK waterways) - http://www.boatstogo.co.uk/museum/museums.html

 

MUSHROOM VENTIL